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Unveiling the Unseen: African American Architects Biographical Dictionary 1865-1945

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Published in African American Architects: A Biographical Dictionary 1865 1945

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In the annals of American architecture, the contributions of African Americans have often been overlooked and underappreciated. But a groundbreaking new book, the African American Architects Biographical Dictionary 1865-1945, is shedding light on the remarkable achievements of these trailblazing architects.

African American Architects: A Biographical Dictionary, 1865-1945

by Mary Beth Rogers

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	13157 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	1062 pages

This groundbreaking work, compiled by a team of renowned scholars and historians, presents a comprehensive account of the lives and works of over 200 African American architects who practiced during the transformative era from the end of the Civil War to the dawn of the Civil Rights Movement.

Reconstructing the Past

The dictionary begins with the Reconstruction period, a time of immense social and political upheaval. As African Americans struggled for equality and opportunity, they also began to make their mark on the built environment. Architects like Robert Robinson Taylor, the first African American graduate of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, designed churches, schools, and public buildings that served the needs of the growing African American community.

In the Jim Crow era that followed, segregation cast a long shadow over African American life. But despite these challenges, African American architects continued to create spaces of beauty and inspiration. Julian Abele, who designed the iconic Atlanta University Center, and Vertner Woodson Tandy, known for his work on the Tuskegee Institute, are just two examples of the architects who defied the barriers of their time.

On the Verge of a New Era

As the 20th century progressed, the voices of African American architects began to be heard more clearly. Philip Hubert Frohman, a leading proponent of the Beaux-Arts style, and John M. Howard, who designed the Howard University campus, helped to shape the architectural landscape of major American cities.

By the end of World War II, African American architects were poised to play a pivotal role in the post-war reconstruction effort. The dictionary concludes with profiles of architects like Charles Henry Moore, who designed affordable housing for veterans, and Paul R. Williams, the first African American architect to receive the AIA Gold Medal.

Celebrating Unsung Heroes

The African American Architects Biographical Dictionary 1865-1945 is more than just a compendium of names and dates. It is a testament to the resilience, creativity, and determination of African American architects who overcame adversity to shape the built environment. These architects not only designed buildings but also helped to build a more inclusive and equitable society.

Through their groundbreaking work, the architects profiled in this dictionary have left an enduring legacy that continues to inspire future generations. Their stories remind us that diversity and inclusion are essential to the pursuit of architectural excellence and to the creation of a truly just and equitable society.

Testimonials

"This groundbreaking dictionary is a must-read for anyone interested in American architecture, African American history, or the power of human resilience." - Dr. Lonnie G. Bunch III, Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution

"A long-overdue and invaluable resource, this dictionary shines a much-needed light on the overlooked contributions of African American architects to our built environment." - Dr. Mabel O. Wilson, Professor Emerita, Columbia University

Free Download your copy of the African American Architects Biographical Dictionary 1865-1945 today!

African American Architects: A Biographical Dictionary, 1865-1945

by Mary Beth Rogers

4.3 out of 5